The inaugural BRICS Sherpas meeting in Brasilia focused on strengthening multilateralism among the bloc’s 11 member nations. Brazil’s agenda emphasizes social and economic development, reforming governance structures, and enhancing local currency payment mechanisms. This meeting sets the stage for the upcoming summit in July, highlighting Brazil’s leadership in the Global South’s collective approach.

Brasilia recently hosted the inaugural BRICS Sherpas meeting under Brazil’s presidency from February 24 to 25. This gathering convened representatives from the bloc’s expanded membership of 11 countries at the Itamaraty Palace, establishing the groundwork for the upcoming summit scheduled in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7. The meeting set an ambitious agenda aimed at enhancing multilateralism and cooperation among Global South nations while advocating for reforms in international governance structures to better reflect the aspirations of developing countries.

Brazil’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mauro Vieira, welcomed attendees, emphasizing the significance of the meeting amidst profound global changes. He highlighted the challenges facing multilateralism, stating, “It is a great honour to welcome you… at a crucial moment—profound transformations, in which the principles of multilateralism and cooperation are being tested by crises that demand urgent and collective action.” Vieira affirmed that a stronger multilateral response is necessary to adapt to the evolving international order.

As the first meeting since BRICS’s recent expansion to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia, alongside the original members, Brazil’s presidency aims to enhance cooperation and social, economic, and environmental development. The agenda outlines six focal areas: health, trade, climate change, artificial intelligence, reform of the multilateral security system, and institutional strengthening of BRICS itself.

Ambassador Celso Amorim, Head Adviser to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, articulated the bloc’s role in coordinating efforts among developing nations, particularly regarding energy, monetary policy, and security. He countered critiques of anti-Western bias by stating, “How can anyone say that Brazil is against the West when we have just concluded an agreement with the European Union?” Amorim emphasized Brazil’s intention to act independently and not subordinate itself to any leading nation.

The second day of the Sherpas meeting featured a special address from President Lula, who expressed optimism about BRICS’s potential for instigating positive change globally. He emphasized the importance of a collective approach to support both South Africa’s G20 presidency and Brazil’s COP30 presidency, declaring that unilateralism poses a threat to international stability. Lula asserted, “We must live up to the chosen motto: strengthening Global South cooperation and reforming international governance structures.”

Addressing economic vulnerabilities, Lula welcomed initiatives to enhance local currency payment systems among BRICS nations, facilitating greater economic integration amid rising protectionism. While he previously considered a common BRICS currency, he now supports expanding bilateral payment agreements, placing Brazil’s stance in contrast with members like Iran and Russia, which face significant pressures to reduce reliance on the US dollar due to sanctions.

In summary, the first BRICS Sherpas meeting in Brasilia marked a strategic gathering to advance multilateral cooperation among its newly expanded membership. Key discussions centered around enhancing global governance, tackling systemic challenges, and exploring local currency payment systems. Brazil’s leadership under President Lula prioritizes collaboration within the Global South and aims to solidify the bloc’s role in promoting a more inclusive world order.

Original Source: intellinews.com

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